Ghana begin WAFU B U17 campaign with 5-1 win over Cote d'Ivoire

Ghana's U17 team, the Black Starlets, kicked off their campaign in the 2024 WAFU Zone B U17 Championship with an emphatic 5-1 win over Cote d'Ivoire on Wednesday. 

Led by former international star Laryea Kingston, the Black Starlets showcased their talent and ambition, leaving fans at the edge of their seats at the University of Ghana Stadium in Accra.

From the opening whistle, Ghana asserted their dominance, with Joseph Narbi leading the charge with a superb brace in the first half. 

Narbi's clinical finishing set the tone for Ghana's attacking prowess, leaving Ivorians struggling to keep pace despite the early dominance of the visitors.

The Black Starlets continued their onslaught in the second half, as Godfred Srapong, Harve Gbafa, and Mark Kagawa each found the back of the net to seal a resounding victory for Ghana. 

Despite Cote d'Ivoire's valiant efforts to mount a comeback, Ghana's relentless pressure proved too much to handle. 

Harve Gbafa's towering header and Mark Kagawa's exquisite curler epitomized the Black Starlets' dominance, ensuring a memorable triumph on home soil.

With this commanding performance, Ghana's chances of advancing to the next stage of the competition look promising. 

The Black Starlets have set the bar high with their scintillating victory, sending a clear message to their rivals in Group A – Cote d'Ivoire and Benin – that they mean business.

Looking ahead, defending champions Nigeria face a formidable challenge in Group B, where they will clash with Burkina Faso, Togo, and Niger. 

With Burkina Faso's impressive track record and Nigeria's determination to defend their title, anticipation is high for thrilling encounters in the days to come.

Thursday's fixtures promise more excitement as Burkina Faso takes on Nigeria, while Togo squares off against Niger in Group B battles.